Multiple Choice
In what direction does energy flow in a food web?
357
views
52. Ecosystems
Energy Flow Through Ecosystems
Struggling with General Biology?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which statement is true about energy flow in an ecosystem?
A
Energy is created by organisms within the ecosystem.
B
Energy is stored indefinitely in the ecosystem.
C
Energy flows in one direction through the ecosystem.
D
Energy is recycled within the ecosystem.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of energy flow in an ecosystem: Energy enters an ecosystem primarily through sunlight, which is captured by producers (like plants) through photosynthesis.
Recognize that energy is not created by organisms; instead, it is transformed from one form to another. Producers convert solar energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.
Identify that energy flows in one direction: from producers to consumers (herbivores, carnivores) and finally to decomposers. This flow is unidirectional because energy is lost as heat at each trophic level due to metabolic processes.
Clarify that energy is not stored indefinitely: While energy is stored temporarily in the form of chemical bonds, it is eventually used up by organisms for growth, reproduction, and maintenance, and lost as heat.
Differentiate between energy flow and nutrient cycling: Unlike energy, nutrients are recycled within the ecosystem. Decomposers break down dead organisms, returning nutrients to the soil for reuse by producers.
5:28mWatch next
Master Gross Productive Energy vs. Assimilated Energy with a bite sized video explanation from Jason
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Energy Flow Through Ecosystems practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations